I am indeed the enjoyer and the lord of all sacrifices. But they do not know Me in essence; hence they fall.
Krishna laments the ignorance of His supreme nature, which leads to incomplete worship. By addressing this gap, He calls for devotion rooted in knowledge and truth, ensuring alignment with the ultimate goal.
Worshippers of the gods go to the gods, worshippers of the ancestors go to the ancestors, worshippers of the spirits go to the spirits, but those who worship Me come to Me.
This verse highlights the consequences of one’s focus in worship, tying destinations to the objects of devotion. Krishna positions Himself as the supreme goal, contrasting other paths as temporary and limited.
Whoever offers Me with devotion a leaf, a flower, a fruit, or water, I accept that loving offering of the pure-hearted.
Krishna’s simplicity and accessibility shine here. Even a humble offering made with devotion is accepted, emphasizing the importance of the heart’s intent over material wealth in worship.
Whatever you do, whatever you eat, whatever you offer in sacrifice, whatever you give, whatever austerity you perform, O Kaunteya, do it as an offering to Me.
By urging Arjuna to dedicate all actions to Him, Krishna integrates the spiritual and material aspects of life. This verse emphasizes that even mundane actions can become sacred when performed as offerings to the divine.
By this dedication, you will be freed from the bonds of action yielding good and bad results, and liberated, you will come to Me.
Liberation from the bonds of karma becomes attainable through dedication. Krishna connects selfless action to spiritual freedom, reminding Arjuna of the transformative power of surrendering results to Him.
I am equally disposed to all beings; to Me, there is none hateful or dear. But those who worship Me with devotion are in Me, and I am in them.
Krishna emphasizes His impartiality, yet highlights the unique bond with devoted worshippers. This verse reassures Arjuna that divine love and guidance become more accessible through faith and dedication.
Even if a man of very bad conduct worships Me with undivided devotion, he must be regarded as righteous, for he has rightly resolved.
Krishna reassures that even those with a troubled past can attain righteousness through unwavering devotion. This commentary challenges societal norms, advocating for redemption and transformation through faith.